259: Why do people believe conspiracy theories?

With special guest Longinus, the boys review Belhaven Scottish Ale, then discuss conspiracy theories, and why people believe them.  Conspiracies are real things, but "conspiracy theory" has taken on the tinge of the tin-foil hat crazies. That's the sort of theory the boys discuss.  What are the components of a conspiracy theory?  What benefit does it give to the believer?  How is the internet involved?  It's usually a shared delusion, not an individual idea. And it usually fits with some legit zeitgeist in the culture. It resonates with some subpopulations.  Conspiracy theories are often irrefutable because any objection becomes evidence of the conspiracy theory. They also become part of a person's self-identity.  People find a strange sense of safety and control when they believe in conspiracy theories because they have secret knowledge. They've peered behind the veil of deception.  There's a feeling these days that conspiracy theories are more prominent on the political right. That is not true. Conspiracy theories are common on both ends of the political spectrum.  People who believe they are out of power are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories, and that changes over the years.